Over the past few years, tariffs quietly hit manufacturers harder than most people realize. Many businesses absorbed those costs just to stay competitive — cutting margins, slowing growth, and tightening cash flow.

Now, the SBA’s Tariff Refund Program for 2026 is creating a real opportunity for manufacturers to recover capital tied up in tariff expenses.

Here’s what this program is, who it’s for, and how to prepare.

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What Is the SBA Tariff Refund Program?

Despite the name, this is not a direct refund or grant.

The SBA Tariff Refund Program is an SBA-backed financing initiative that allows eligible manufacturers to leverage documented tariff expenses to unlock capital. The intent is to help businesses restore liquidity and strengthen their financial position heading into 2026.

Think of it as a structured way to recover capital that was lost to tariffs — not free money, but strategic funding.

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Who This Program Is Designed For

This program is specifically aimed at businesses that were directly impacted by tariffs and absorbed those costs internally.

Strong candidates typically include:

• Manufacturers
• Import-heavy businesses
• Distributors sourcing materials or goods internationally
• Companies with documented tariff payments
• Businesses with consistent revenue and operations

Documentation matters. Businesses that tracked tariff-related costs will be in the best position.

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Why This Matters Going Into 2026

Tariffs didn’t just cause short-term pain — they created long-term balance sheet issues that many businesses are still carrying today.

This program can help manufacturers:

• Recover working capital lost to tariffs
• Improve cash flow and liquidity
• Reinvest in equipment, hiring, or expansion
• Strengthen their position for future SBA financing

For businesses planning growth in 2026, this program can act as a financial reset.

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What This Program Is Not

Let’s clear up a few misconceptions:

• It is not automatic
• It is not a cash grant
• It is not free money
• It does require proper structure and documentation

This is a strategic financing opportunity, not a shortcut.

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How to Prepare (Before Everyone Else Does)

Businesses that prepare early will have the most options.

Key steps to take now:

• Review historical tariff payments and import records
• Organize financial statements from impacted periods
• Assess credit, cash flow, and banking activity
• Understand how SBA-backed financing works

Waiting until demand spikes or program limits tighten could reduce available funding.

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The SBA Tariff Refund Program for 2026 represents a meaningful opportunity for manufacturers that carried the financial burden of tariffs over the past several years.

For the right businesses, this program can restore capital, improve liquidity, and support long-term growth — but only if it’s structured correctly and approached strategically.

If your business was impacted by tariffs and you’re planning for growth in 2026, this is a conversation worth having now.